Right its time to go - this time to the airport although I get the feeling the plane might wait.
I know I have been lighthearted about the motorcade and the plane and other trappings of power. Yes it is a statement of power but it is also a statement that says we need to be at a location at a certain time and in safety. The people that I have met and dealt with in the last 24 hours are friendly and helpful but also they have a very srious job to do.
As i sit in the van at the back of the motorcade with traffic being stopped all over the place I watch the press corps who are trying to file stories on Northern Ireland and North Korea and are speaking in various languages on other stories that they may be working on. They really are an inquisitive bunch with questions on politics, economics or religion. Also now that they have to travel with the Secretary to Russia it does make me realise the sacrifice that these people must make with being away from home, family and friends. If you are reading this thank you for the fun, challenging questions and by the way George Best is a major football hero here1
Without wishing to over do the theme - the embassy and consulate support staff, security and State Department staff make a similar sacrifice with long hours probably normally being very far from home and important events such as the birth of a child and I send best wishes to the security agent who is awaiting some good news -hope you make it home on time.
Of course all of the above applies to our special guest. The Secretary of State has had a smile and encouragement for everyone she has met. (I am convinced I got a personal wave and smile after what must have been a long week and wasnt over yet). We make many complaints about politicians and often rightly so but lets remember the sacrifices and service they offer.
Right on the tarmac again and time to wave goodbye.To the Secretary of State I hope we see you again and take advantage of the attention, encouragement and commitment that you have shown to Northern Ireland.
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